RESEARCH ASSISTANT I - Chanda Lab (BIOLOGY)

ABOUT US:

Calibr-Skaggs Institute for Innovative Medicines was founded on the principle that the creation of new medicines can be accelerated by pairing world-class biomedical research with state-of-the-art drug discovery and development capabilities. Calibr-Skaggs is a division of Scripps Research, a first-of-its-kind, nonprofit translational research institute dedicated to creating the next generation of medicines. Scripps Research is ranked the most influential institution in the world for its impact on innovation. Our educational and training programs mold talented and committed students and postdocs into leading-edge scientists. Leveraging the unique scientific environment of Scripps Research, impacting translational sciences, Calibr-Skaggs has created a portfolio of drug candidates, and is shaping a new paradigm for advancing nonprofit biomedical research to impact patients while reinvesting in further innovative research. We expand basic knowledge in the biosciences and use these fundamental advancements to develop profound innovations that improve wellbeing. Calibr-Skaggs' drug development portfolio spans a broad range of human diseases, including cancer, autoimmunity and inflammatory diseases, metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, infectious and neglected tropical diseases, as well as age-related and degenerative diseases. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.

POSITION TITLE: Research Assistant I

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Chanda Lab is based at The Scripps Research Institute (La Jolla, California), a globally recognized leader in scientific and medical innovation. Scientists across the Institute's five academic research departments advance fundamental knowledge and translate discoveries into cutting-edge therapeutic strategies. Our group is part of the Immunology and Microbiology Department, where we focus on elucidating the molecular mechanisms of virus-host interactions using advanced approaches including CRISPR, RNAi, next-generation sequencing, proteomics, chemical biology, and super-resolution microscopy. Through our Calibr arm, we conduct a robust drug-discovery program aimed at translating molecular insights into next-generation therapeutics for viral infections, cancer, and autoimmune diseases. Our team's transformative research, combined with the unique scientific environment at Scripps, fosters the development of the next generation of scientific leaders.

The Chanda Lab at Calibr is seeking a highly motivated individual to support antiviral drug and immune modulator discovery programs. Under this role, the ideal candidate will work in a team environment to support the execution of key high-throughput assays, develop new in vitro assays, and maintain virus stocks and cell culture lines.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILTIES:

• Perform general lab duties.
• Human primary cell and cell line culture, preparation of media and reagents.
• Compound handling and plate inventory.
• Develop in vitro assays for BSL2-level viruses to enable drug discovery flowcharts.
• Execute high-throughput assays against for screening campaigns.
• Data analysis and lab notebook documentation.
• The position requires great attention to detail, dexterity of the hands, troubleshooting capability and flexibility to adapt to a fast-paced environment.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• Bachelor of Science in biology, biochemistry, microbiology, or related field.
• 1-3 years laboratory experience.
• Experience in working with viruses: stock generation, determining infectious titers, setting up in vitro antiviral assays are preferred.
• Experience with cell-based and biochemical assays using methods such as high-content imaging, luminescence, fluorescence, and absorbance are required.
• Experience with database interface and data analysis using Excel and Prism is preferred.
• Experience with automated liquid handling instruments is a plus.
• Experience with gene expression analysis (RT-qPCR, NextGen sequencing, etc.) is a plus.
• Excellent oral and written communications skills.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• This position works in a laboratory or vivarium environment.
• Details of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.

COMPENSATION: The expected hiring range for this position is $23.31 to $28.75 per hour, commensurate with experience. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.

COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE:

• Employer Contributed Retirement Plan - Depending on eligibility, employees receive an employer contributed retirement plan (no employee contribution required) and the option to contribute to a 403(b) using your own pre or post-tax dollars.
• Full suite of Health and Welfare plans including four medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more.
• Access to Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical/Dependent Care).
• Competitive vacation and sick leave policies.
• Free, on-site parking.

The above statements describe the level of work performed and expected in general terms. The statements are not intended to list all the responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of employees so classified, and the content herein is subject to change due to the business needs of Scripps Research, with or without notice. Furthermore, nothing in this job description shall be interpreted to be in conflict with or to eliminate or modify in any way the employment-at-will status of Scripps Research staff.

EEO Statement:
The Scripps Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We promote diversity of thought, culture, and background in the fields of science. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or status.